“I am committed to improving the safety of our roadways, and the West Virginia 511 Traveler Information System will be a valuable addition to this effort,” Gov. Tomblin said. “For motorists throughout the state, having access to real-time information on traffic and road conditions before they go, provides advanced warning of road conditions and congestion that can be crucial in increasing safety on the roadways.”

Motorists can receive real-time traffic updates 24 hours a day by calling 511 toll-free, visiting WV511.org, downloading the free WV 511 Drive Safe mobile app for Android and iPhone, or following WV 511 on Twitter. West Virginia Department of Transportation encourages drivers to “Know Before You Go” by using the West Virginia 511 system before getting behind the wheel.

“We stress Know Before You Go because knowledge of traffic conditions can save you time and contribute to a safe traveling experience,” Sec. Mattox said. “We all know traffic conditions change and having modern technology available during your trip can make all the difference—we urge travelers to obey our law and use the technology appropriately.”

By dialing 511 from any landline or mobile phone, callers will receive traffic information, road conditions and weather forecasts in addition to transfers to the Department of Tourism and neighboring states’ 511 systems. West Virginia 511 also is updated with public safety alerts, including AMBER and Silver alerts.

The WV511.org website provides an interactive map with the locations of traffic incidents, roadway construction and weather advisories. The map also allows users to view traffic cameras from around the state in addition to showing the location of electronic roadway signs and their current messages.

The free WV 511 Drive Safe mobile app offers drivers audible, hands-free traffic alerts. The app is available for iPhone and Android devices and uses the phone’s speaker and GPS location to provide audible travel advisories in the driver’s vicinity.